why make this recipe
Making Easy Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of tomatoes while warming your soul. It’s a simple recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes, combined with creamy textures and fresh herbs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses fresh ingredients that you may already have at home.
how to make Easy Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ripe tomatoes (Roma, on-the-vine, or a mix; halve small to medium, quarter larger ones)
- 1 large yellow onion (quartered, pieces separated)
- 8 cloves garlic (peeled, ends trimmed)
- 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp fine sea salt (and more to taste, initial use ½ tsp)
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper (and more to taste)
- 2 cups Chicken Stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian)
- 4 Tbsp chopped fresh basil (plus more for serving; 2 tsp dried if fresh isn’t available)
- ½ cup heavy cream (plus more to taste)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp sugar (plus more to taste)
Directions:
Step 1: Roast Those Veggies:
Preheat your oven to a cozy 400°F (about 200°C). Grab a big, rimmed baking sheet. Arrange your halved or quartered tomatoes, onion pieces, and peeled garlic cloves on the sheet in a single layer, making sure there is space for even roasting. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of the salt and all the pepper. Pop it into the hot oven and roast for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the edges of the tomatoes and onions are a lovely brown. Once done, take them out and let them cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: First Blend:
Carefully scoop about half of your roasted tomato mixture into your blender or food processor. Add 1 cup of your chicken or vegetable broth and 2 tablespoons of fresh basil. Blend until it’s smooth. Pour this rich, pureed goodness into a large soup pot or Dutch oven and set aside.
Step 3: Second Blend:
Repeat the blending process. Add the remaining roasted tomato mixture to the blender, making sure to scrape in any delicious juices left on the baking pan. Add another cup of broth and the final 2 tablespoons of basil. Blend until silky smooth, then add this batch to the pot with the first puree.
Step 4: Simmer & Season:
Place your soup pot over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, sugar, and the remaining 1½ teaspoons of salt. Keep stirring gently until the Parmesan melts beautifully and evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to suit your taste buds. Once satisfied, ladle into bowls, garnish with a swirl of fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and serve warm.
how to serve Easy Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup
Serve this delicious soup warm, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You might also enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal. If you like a little kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes on top before serving.
how to store Easy Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
tips to make Easy Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. If tomatoes are not in season, look for high-quality canned tomatoes.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs.
- For an extra creamy soup, blend in more heavy cream just before serving.
- You can also add different spices, like thyme or oregano, to enhance the flavor.
variation
For a vegan version, skip the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Instead, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy texture. Additionally, adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, can enhance the soup’s flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. Look for whole or crushed tomatoes with no added sugar or preservatives.
2. How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, you can include crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when roasting the vegetables.
3. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, if fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil. Just use 2 teaspoons instead of 4 tablespoons, as dried herbs are stronger in flavor.
